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The world is a very busy place, and it’s hard to stay on top of everything. Infoplease has got you covered. Here are the World news events you need to know so far for March 2024.
- Russia Launches Strike On Odesa, Killing At Least 20 People
- Military Agreement Between Niger And The United States Comes To An End
- Columbia Announces Suspension Of Ceasefire With EMC In Three Areas
- Putin Extends His Tenure As The President Of Russia
- Hong Kong Passes Tough Security Law After Several Years
- United Kingdom Expected To Introduce Bill To Ban Smoking Among Young People
Russia Launches Strike On Odesa, Killing At Least 20 People
Image Source: AP Images/Victor Sajenko
Friday, March 15, 2024 – A Russian missile strike in Odesa, Ukraine, killed over 20 people and injured many in the deadliest attack since the invasion began. Emergency responders faced a “double tap” strike, a tactic often used by Russia. Among the victims was Denys Kolesnikov, a firefighter. The attack coincided with Russian elections, aiming to secure Putin’s fifth term.
Rescuers were initially targeted while tending to victims. President Zelensky condemned the strikes, vowing a strong response. The United Nations and Ukraine’s Interior Minister also condemned the attack. Odesa, a city that is vital for Ukraine’s grain exports, has suffered extensive damage.
Previously, a missile narrowly missed Zelensky’s convoy. Zelensky urged allies for more air defenses. Mitsotakis emphasized the impact the ongoing war has on civilians. The strike underscores the daily dangers faced by Ukrainians.
Source: CNN
Military Agreement Between Niger And The United States Comes To An End
Image Source: AP Images/Sam Mednick
Saturday, March 16, 2024 – Niger’s military government has terminated a longstanding agreement with the United States. The agreement permits American military and civilian personnel to operate in Niger. This move comes shortly after high-level talks between Nigerien officials and United States diplomats and military representatives.
Colonel Major Amadou Abdramane, a Nigerien military spokesperson, stated that the agreement, which was established in 2012, was revoked due to its imposition on Niger and its violation of the nation’s sovereignty and democratic principles.
The relationship between Niger and the United States has soured since a military junta seized power in July 2023, which the United States labeled a coup. Consequently, the United States has withdrawn a significant number of its 1,100 troops who were stationed in Niger, although it maintains an interest in combating terrorism in the region.
Source: CNN
Columbia Announces Suspension Of Ceasefire With EMC In Three Areas
Image Source: AP Images/Fernando Vergara
Sunday, March 17, 2024 – Colombia has decided to suspend its ceasefire with the Estado Mayor Central (EMC) armed group in three provinces due to incidents of violence that violated the ceasefire terms. The EMC, formed by ex-members of the FARC rebels who rejected the 2016 peace deal, entered talks with President Gustavo Petro’s government last year to end Colombia’s long-standing conflict.
Despite ongoing negotiations, violence persists among rebel and armed groups vying for control of illicit activities like drug trafficking and illegal mining. The ceasefire, in effect since October and extended to July 15, was ended in Nariño, Cauca, and Valle del Cauca provinces where EMC breaches occurred.
State intervention was deemed necessary as EMC attacks targeted civilians, officials, and security forces. While Petro aims to resolve the conflict through negotiations or surrender agreements, a senior EMC leader expressed skepticism about achieving a peace deal before Petro’s term ends in 2026.
Source: Reuters
Putin Extends His Tenure As The President Of Russia
Image Source: AP Images/Alexander Zemlianichenko
Monday, March 18, 2024 – President Vladimir Putin has solidified his control over Russia by winning the just concluded election with an overwhelming 87.3% of the vote, amid a record turnout of 77.5%. This victory extends his rule until at least 2030, marking him as Russia’s longest-serving leader since Joseph Stalin.
Opposition to Putin has been effectively quashed, with most challengers either eliminated or barred from running. The Kremlin carefully curated the candidates allowed to oppose Putin, ensuring no credible challenge to his authority. Despite the predictable outcome, the election ritual remains crucial for affirming Putin’s power.
Changes to Russian law, including extending presidential terms to six years and removing term limits, have paved the way for Putin to potentially remain in power until 2036. In his victory speech, Putin emphasized national unity and Russia’s stance against Western confrontation.
Source: CNN
Hong Kong Passes Tough Security Law After Several Years
Image Source: AP Images/Louise Delmotte
Tuesday, March 19, 2024 – Hong Kong has swiftly passed a stringent security law, termed Article 23, aimed at maintaining stability, but critics fear it will further erode civil liberties. The law introduces new offenses like external interference and insurrection, with penalties including life imprisonment. It was fast-tracked through the pro-Beijing parliament in less than two weeks.
The law builds upon the controversial national security law imposed by China, criminalizing activities like secession and collusion with foreign forces. The leader of Hong Kong argues it’s necessary to safeguard against potential sabotage, while critics decry it as a blow to human rights.
According to the spokesperson of the government, the government reassures that law-abiding citizens won’t be affected. Vice-Premier of China, Ding Xuexiang said core national interest would be protected by the swift enactment of the new legislation.
Source: BBC
United Kingdom Expected To Introduce Bill To Ban Smoking Among Young People
Image Source: AP Images/Alastair Grant
Wednesday, March 20, 2024 – The British government plans to introduce a bill in parliament aimed at fulfilling its commitment to phase out smoking among young people by prohibiting tobacco sales for future generations. The proposed Tobacco and Vapes Bill considered one of the toughest anti-tobacco laws globally, would ban the sale of tobacco to individuals turning 15 or younger this year.
Conservative Prime Minister Rishi Sunak emphasizes the need to address smoking as a preventable cause of health issues. Despite opposition, including criticism from within the governing party, the legislation is expected to pass, with support from the opposition Labour Party.
The move comes amid concerns over the economic and health costs of smoking, estimated at £17 billion annually. Additionally, the legislation aims to regulate vaping more strictly, given its rising popularity among non-smokers and youth.
Source: Reuters
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